KUALA LUMPUR, July 25 – UMNO Information Chief Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said has stressed that the Negeri Sembilan state election campaign must be built on unity and harmony, rather than exploiting divisive sentiments for political gain.

She stated that Barisan Nasional (BN), since its inception, was established on the consensus of Malaysia’s multiracial, multi-religious, and diverse society through the cooperation of UMNO, MCA, MIC, and other component parties—proving that the nation’s stability stems from understanding and negotiation, not the politics of hatred.

“BN defends the interests of the Malay and Bumiputera communities as enshrined in the Federal Constitution, without denying the rights, dignity, and legitimate status of any Malaysian citizen,” she said in a statement today.

Commenting on a statement by Kedah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor—who remarked that “the Chinese have China, Indians have India, Cambodians have Cambodia, but the Malays only have Malaysia”—Azalina warned that such statements should not be taken lightly.

She noted that they falsely imply Malaysian citizens of Chinese and Indian descent have alternative homelands, when Malaysia is, in fact, their only home.

According to Azalina, while the Federal Constitution clearly establishes the position of Islam, the institution of the Malay Rulers, and the special rights of the Malays and Bumiputeras, it simultaneously guarantees the rights and lawful status of every citizen regardless of heritage.

“Every legitimate citizen shares the same homeland, is protected by the same Constitution, and has the right to live in peace and dignity,” she emphasized.

She reminded all political leaders and election machinery to remain responsible for their statements during the campaign period. Specifically, issues involving race, religion, and the royal institution (the 3Rs) should never be weaponized to provoke anger or fear.

Furthermore, Azalina—who is also the Minister of Law and Institutional Reform—highlighted that the voters of Negeri Sembilan deserve a campaign centered on issues that directly impact their daily lives, such as the cost of living, employment, housing, education, healthcare, local development, and the future of their children.

She reiterated that BN does not need scare tactics to win support, but instead offers stability, experience, moderation, and a nation that guarantees a place for every citizen.

“Barisan Nasional is a shared home for all Malaysians. We will not allow anyone to tear this home down for short-term political gain,” she added.